Anjorin Chooses Super Eagles Over England in Major Boost for Nigeria

Faustino Anjorin has made the pivotal decision to pledge his international future to Nigeria, marking a significant win for the Nigeria Football Federation. The Chelsea academy graduate, now playing for Italian side Empoli, has opted to represent the Super Eagles instead of England, for whom he was once tipped to become a standout player.

Having spent sixteen years at Chelsea, Anjorin transitioned to Empoli last summer. He now shares a dressing room with Nigerian international Tyronne Ebuehi. Reports indicate that national team coach Eric Chelle is eyeing the 23 year old midfielder for the upcoming June 2025 fixtures.

Anjorin, born in England to a Nigerian father, qualifies to play for Nigeria through descent. Though he once appeared in England’s U17 and U19 squads and was seen as a Three Lions hopeful, persistent injuries have stalled his progress, leaving him uncapped since 2021.

It’s understood that Anjorin is enthusiastic about joining the Nigerian setup and requires no persuasion from Chelle or the football federation. Nevertheless, he must apply for a one time FIFA nationality switch due to his previous appearances in competitive youth matches for England.

He is poised to follow in the footsteps of players like Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, and Ola Aina—each of whom represented England’s youth teams before making their senior debut for Nigeria.

Editorial

We believe Tino Anjorin’s commitment to the Super Eagles is both symbolic and strategic. This decision reflects a growing trend of young talents with dual nationality reassessing their international careers and aligning with nations that offer more opportunity and emotional connection.

It is not just about game time it’s about identity, ambition, and belonging. Anjorin’s story echoes that of several other talents who once wore the English shirt but found their true calling in green and white. His move underscores Nigeria’s ability to attract top tier diaspora talent despite the intense competition from European nations.

The NFF must now ensure that this growing pool of dual-nationality players is seamlessly integrated into the squad. These individuals bring with them not only skill but also experience from elite football environments. Their inclusion could bridge tactical gaps and inspire homegrown players through collaboration and shared excellence.

Anjorin’s trajectory, from Cobham to Empoli, and now to the brink of international football with Nigeria, is a tale of resilience and rediscovery. It should also serve as motivation for the federation to remain proactive in scouting and relationship-building with players of Nigerian heritage around the world.

As we prepare for upcoming fixtures, we must embrace players like Anjorin not merely as additions, but as vital contributors to the Super Eagles’ renaissance.

Did You Know?

1. Tino Anjorin was once dubbed “the next Ruben Loftus Cheek” during his early Chelsea days due to his playing style and physicality.
2. Empoli, Anjorin’s current club, has been a key launchpad for several Italian internationals, including Daniele Rugani and Ismaël Bennacer.
3. Nigeria’s successful recruitment of dual-nationals has increased significantly since 2017, with over ten players switching allegiances.
4. Anjorin scored on his senior debut for Chelsea in an EFL Cup match in 2020.
5. FIFA’s one-time nationality switch rule was revised in 2020, making it easier for players with limited youth caps to change national teams.